COLUMBUS, Ohio — Geauga and Mahoning County park district officials facing disgruntled citizens seem to have found a sympathetic ear at the Ohio Statehouse.

A proposed amendment to the state budget bill, floated by Republicans, would give probate court judges more power over park districts, including the ability to fine or penalize outside groups that “interfere” with a park district’s purpose or mission.

Rep. John Boccieri, a Poland Democrat, said the amendment would limit dissent from groups challenging board actions.